Vehicle Services

General Inspection Information

The Division performs vehicle inspection at all four DMV facilities. The inspections are performed for no fee. Usually, all vehicles being titled for the first time in Delaware must be inspected. There is an exception for new vehicles never titled in any state sold by dealers who provide the buyer a Delaware Application for Title (MV212A form). These vehicles are not required to be inspected. The newest five model years of vehicles, weighing 10,000 pounds or less and being titled for the first time in Delaware, may only be required to have a vehicle identification number (VIN) verification.

A typical automobile inspection consists of a safety inspection covering such items as tires, brakes, windows and an exhaust emissions inspection that analyses the vehicle's exhaust and a test of the fuel system for leaks. Trailers exceeding a 4,000-pound weight limit must pass brake and safety inspections. All DMV inspection technicians are certified and trained in all aspects of the inspection process.

A vehicle inspection may occur up to 90 days before the registration expiration date. An early inspection within this 90-day cycle will not change the normal expiration date. DMV, as required by Delaware law, charges a $10.00 late fee in addition to the normal registration fee for all renewals performed after the registration expiration date of the vehicle. Owners are required to provide DMV with valid proof of Delaware liability insurance and a Vehicle Inspection Report for their vehicle to renew their registration.

Most gasoline-powered automobiles and light trucks model year 1981 and newer will receive a low and high speed (two-speed) exhaust emissions test. Gasoline-powered automobiles and light trucks 1980 model year and older will continue to receive the current (curb idle) tests. Diesel fueled vehicles model year 1996 and older are currently exempt from exhaust emissions testing but must pass safety testing for registration renewal. Diesel fueled vehicles model year 1997 and newer must pass an OBD-II test.

The Division emails or voicemails (sign up here) registration renewal notices to each vehicle owner of record approximately 90, 60, and 30 days before a registration expiration date of a vehicle. The notification allows some vehicle owners to renew their registration by mail without having their vehicle inspected. The mail-in registration renewal option is only available for certain model year vehicles and depends on the vehicle's weight, type of vehicle and the
number of years renewed in the last renewal cycle. Owners renewing registrations of vehicles in the first five model years can proceed to the nearest DMV registration renewal section to complete the registration process. Owners who change their address during a registration period must notify DMV to assure that the next renewal notice goes to the correct address (change of address form.

Check the Vehicle Inspection Program FAQ's for more information on the
inspection program.

Tips for passing inspection:

Make sure your engine is thoroughly warmed up before you arrive so it is operating at peak efficiency.